A hydraulic cylinder utilises pressurised fluid to transfer power to heavy-duty equipment like cranes, excavators, loaders, trailers, dump trucks, skip bins and bulldozers. Like any mechanical product, hydraulic cylinders can end up slackening in performance over a period. While this may be triggered by several reasons, fluid trouble is one of the biggest culprits. This guide aims to demystify how fluid reduces performance of the hydraulic cylinder in your machinery.

Accrued Debris Instigates Thickened Fluid Viscosity

Viscosity ultimately refers to the thickness of fluids. In this vein, more viscous fluids are thicker. Oil needs to pass through the hydraulic system components to ensure they run smoothly without any friction. But over time, elements and debris will interact with this oil and will thicken it. If the viscosity increases, then the fluid flow will begin to decrease and your machines will stop performing effectively. In most instances, you may need to get the viscous oil flushed out and replaced with new oil.

Drips Begin To Form In The Hydraulic Reservoir

The hydraulic reservoir is used to hold the fluid, which runs through and transfers heat from the cylinder to the air. This reservoir can spring a leak if the hydraulic cylinder is not regularly serviced or repaired. If a dripping leak forms in the hydraulic reservoir, the fluid will not be able to effectively complete its heat transfer process. In turn, this will slacken the performance of the cylinder. A professional will need to seal the leak to reinstate normal operation.

Clogs Appear In The Fluid Lines

The fluid lines are used to run the oil through the cylinder to ensure minimal friction when the entire machine operates. But in construction sites, flying debris, dust and dirt can eventually make their way into the cylinder fluid lines. This will clog them up and reduce fluid flow over time. Unless the clogs are removed using pipe-cleaning tools, your construction machinery will under perform and seem sluggish.

Unforeseen Air Seeps In Through Holes

If air enters into the hydraulic reservoir or fluid line through holes caused over time, it will cause bubbles to form. These bubbles influence the performance of fluid by causing lubrication deprivation, temperature increases, loud noises and quality reduction. These bubbles will severely deteriorate the performance of the hydraulic cylinder, which will result in poor machinery operation. Any holes must be sealed to prevent air from seeping through them and harming system performance.

Don't let these issues affect efficient hydraulic cylinder performance. If you do notice any of these problems, make sure you get the cylinder serviced or repaired immediately to prevent major trouble later.